The Mekong Delta, often called the “rice bowl” of Vietnam, is a lush region filled with green landscapes and a network of rivers and canals. This waterway is home to floating boats, houses, and markets that move with the mighty Mekong River. The river starts in the Himalayas and flows through several countries before reaching Vietnam, which adds to its murky waters. In the delta, you can visit many places that show what life is like in the Vietnamese countryside.
The charming towns along the Mekong River are vibrant, boasting clear blue skies, an abundance of exotic fruits, and a mix of markets, temples, and historical mansions. While some attractions can be accessed via a Mekong Cruise, others require independent exploration. Be sure to check out the lush mangroves, thriving bird sanctuaries, and intricate canal networks. Here are some top spots to visit in the Mekong Delta.
- Ben Tre
Ben Tre is close to Ho Chi Minh City, making it easy to visit on a day trip. You can enjoy a riverfront homestay and explore hidden spots. Experience local culture by taking a boat ride through nipa palm canals and visiting a coconut candy workshop.
- Hon Son Island
Hon Son, or Lai Son, is a quiet island about 30 miles southwest of Rach Gia. It’s undeveloped with beautiful coastline and a single road connecting small communities. Bai Bac and Bai Bo are great beaches, with Bai Bang popular for its unique coconut palm and swings. - Phu Quoc National Park
Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s largest island and a hidden paradise with nature, beaches, and mountains. Over half of the northern area is a national park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, ideal for hiking, camping, and birdwatching, with rare wildlife to see. - Sao Beach
Sao Beach features white sand and palm trees, making it a tropical paradise with clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. - Long Beach
Long Beach, stretching along the west coast of Phu Quoc Island, offers stunning sunsets. Some beach areas are less accessible, so a motorbike or bicycle is needed to reach them. - An Thoi Islands
These 15 islands off Phu Quoc’s southern tip are known for their white sands and blue waters. You can charter a boat for a day of sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling. - Thoi Son Island
Thoi Son Island is known for its fruit trees and beautiful canals. You can explore by boat and relax in hammocks. Visit Mr. Tam’s traditional home for a glimpse of local history. - Tra Su Bird Sanctuary
Tra Su Bird Sanctuary is a nature lover’s paradise with diverse wildlife and beautiful scenery. Enjoy a boat ride through the tranquil forest, especially lovely from December to January. - Tra Su Mangrove Forest
This vibrant ecotourism site is mostly dry but floods during the rainy season, making it great for guided boat tours. The best time to visit is from September to November. - Bang Lang Stork Garden
Located between Can Tho and Long Xuyen, this bird sanctuary is home to thousands of storks. A tall viewing platform offers great views, especially at dawn and dusk. - Tram Chim National Park
Known as the kingdom of birds, Tram Chim is home to over 220 bird species, many endangered. The best time for birdwatching is in March or April, particularly for the rare red-headed cranes. - Mui Nai Beach
Mui Nai Beach features warm water and soft sand, perfect for swimming and relaxing under palm trees. - Sam Mountain
At 750 feet, this is the tallest mountain in the Mekong Delta, offering scenic views of rice fields and the surrounding countryside. It’s an important site for Buddhist pilgrimage. - Cavern Pagoda
Located halfway up Sam Mountain, this pagoda has stunning views and tombs of its founders. - Xeo Quyt Forest
Xeo Quyt Forest is a beautiful swamp filled with tall trees and vines, home to remnants of Viet Cong bunkers that can be explored by canoe or on foot. - U Minh Ha Mangrove Forests
Ca Mau is home to extensive coastal mangrove ecosystems, creating diverse habitats filled with seawater and green water ferns. - Soc Trang
Soc Trang has the largest Khmer population outside of Cambodia, offering unique cultural experiences. Visit the famous Clay and Bat pagodas, and enjoy the surrounding rice fields, especially during the Oc Om Boc festival in November or December. - Can Gio Biosphere Reserve
A UNESCO site, this reserve features rich mangrove forests and wetland ecosystems. It’s a great day trip from Ho Chi Minh City and a good starting point for exploring the Mekong River Delta. - Chau Doc
Chau Doc is known for its religious and ethnic diversity. The area is lush with rice fields, and staying at Victoria Nui Sam offers a real treat.
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